Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
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Question 503: To ask the Minister for Health his plans for the management of Galway University Hospitals; his plans to appoint a private management company to manage these hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32045/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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In order to strengthen the performance of acute hospitals which perform crucial roles within our health service, the HSE has identified a need to have available from time to time Senior Executives, either team-based or individuals, on a short-term basis to strengthen executive teams; lead a project or programme; provide an injection of skills; or assist in the transformation agenda set by Government.

In June 2011, the HSE invited tenders from potential service providers to compete for appointment to a four-year Framework Agreement for Personnel Placement and Supply Services. Under the Framework Agreement, service providers can be asked to source and supply either senior interim managers or more long-term senior management candidates. At present, the HSE is focusing on getting senior interim managers in place.

Following a tender process, a Framework Agreement, involving five companies, was established in September 2011. In October 2011, the five companies were invited to participate in a mini-competition to source and propose candidates for an Interim Management Support Structure for HSE West. The competition has closed and the proposals are being evaluated. As this process is still under way, it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further on it at this stage.

Under these arrangements it is planned to recruit a Chief Executive Officer for the Galway University Hospitals Group. It is also intended to strengthen management capacity in the HSE Mid-Western region by putting in place a similar Interim Management Support Structure.

It is envisaged that existing managers in these locations will benefit from a transfer of knowledge and skills while working alongside these senior interim managers resulting in the further development of the management and service delivery capability. The information and consultation mechanism used in the context of the planned Interim Management Support Structure for HSE West was in line with the terms of the Public Service Agreement. The HSE engaged with the relevant staff representative body at both a national and local level.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 504: To ask the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) in County Kerry regarding a community hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32066/11]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 505: To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide extra services in Dingle Community Hospital (details supplied) County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32093/11]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 504 and 505 together.

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.